Former peanut company officials indicted in salmonella case

Washington (CNN) -- Four former officials of the
now-closed Peanut Corporation of America were indicted Thursday on
charges related to salmonella-tainted peanuts and peanut products, the
Justice Department said.

A 2009 salmonella
outbreak that prompted a massive recall of peanut goods led to nine
deaths and more than 700 illnesses in more than 40 states, according to
the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The 76-count indictment,
unsealed in Georgia, alleged mail and wire fraud, the introduction of
adulterated and misbranded food into interstate commerce with the intent
to defraud or mislead, and conspiracy.

A plant in Blakely,
Georgia, roasted and processed raw peanuts. Its peanut paste was sold to
customers nationwide and used in crackers, cookies, and other items.

The Food and Drug
Administration (FDA) said the company shipped tainted product it knew
had tested positive for bacteria linked to the salmonella outbreak.

U.S. Attorney Michael Moore of Macon said the accused are expected to appear in court in Albany next week.